Community Vision/Values

Early Stapleton Planning

A development with the magnitude and importance of Stapleton calls for a clear vision that reflects the values of the community as well as state-of-the-art planning and design. In 1989, with the decision to build the new Denver International Airport and close Stapleton International Airport, planning for the future of the Stapleton property began when a group of citizens undertook a large-scale community planning exercise known as Stapleton Tomorrow.

Over the next two years, Stapleton Tomorrow sought the opinions of a broad spectrum of Denver residents about how to redevelop Stapleton. The creation of jobs and open space as well as recreational and cultural opportunities emerged as predominant concerns.

Stapleton Tomorrow's work concluded in 1991 with the creation of a concept plan for Stapleton re-use. The plan emphasized economic development, benefits to adjacent neighborhoods, enhanced environmental quality, high standards of urban design, educational and cultural opportunities, and the creation of revenues to support airport objectives. The Denver City Council adopted the Stapleton Tomorrow Concept Plan in June 1991 as part of the Denver Comprehensive Plan.